The best thing about everything that John John is doing right now is that it's all just the beginning. We're all witness to what is becoming the next level. A well-roundedness that is beyond comprehension and an approach that will take things further. John John was not 100% at the Volcom Pipe Pro. He had a deep cut in his hand, and his back (which he broke about a year ago) was not feeling good. In all honesty, it was a bit of a struggle for him. But, this is where true grit prevails, and John was defending his title. He was surfing for neighborhood supremacy, which means more than points or money, when you live at Pipeline. Every heat he came from behind. Guys were packing 8-10 foot bombs, and John was waiting for the good ones. Good enough ones to get through the heat, a few times. His intimate knowledge of the reef bailed him out more than once, and when he got to the Semis he could smell another event win at Pipe. But, with 11:26 seconds left in the heat he was in 4th. Seven and a half minutes later, with 3:50 left on the clock, he was in 1st. A minute later, he was further ahead. Things happen fast. Things stayed on the same pace during the Final. John started slow. J.O.B. did not. He was throwing away an 8.00 and sitting on two 9's in the first 10 minutes of the Heat. John had 3 points. But, things happen fast at the Pipeline, and after taking one massive Pipe closeout to get the blood flowing, John came to. With 16:54 seconds left on the clock he got a 6.33. Signs of life, but he went quiet again. Twelve more minutes ticked away, and then the flood gates opened. A 10.0 with 4:00 left, and then a 9.93 Backdoor buzzer beater. Seven hundredths of a point from perfection, but a third Pipe event win, all before his twentieth birthday. The neighborhood is ripe with talent, and the rivalry between John and J.O.B. is strong and healthy. The boys were high fivin' and hugging it out on the beach. Nothing you can say about a double near perfect performance from the hood's two superstars. Volcom Pipeline Pro rules, again! Congrats John! We love you...